Vicodin is a drug which combines hydrocodone (a class of narcotic pain relievers) and acetaminophen. The latter is less potent as a pain reliever and enhances the reactions of hydrocodone. Vicodin works by relieving severe and moderate pain. Before taking the drug, one should know that Vicodin can affect your level of thought and reaction to situations. This is why when you are on Vicodin, it is best not to drink as the chances of a damaged liver can be increased. If you have encountered cirrhosis or alcoholic liver disease ever, it is best to provide the information to your doctor.
The same should be done in case you take over 3 alcoholic beverages during the day. Do not opt for a higher dosage of Vicodin than what the doctor recommends since an overdose may lead to liver damage or even death. In case Vicodin stops working, it is best to inform your doctor who can adjust the dosage or change the medicine to be replaced with another pain relaxant. The medicine should be stored in a safe place, free of the reach of children. Before opting for another medication for sleep, allergy, pain or cold, it is best to consult with your doctor.
It should be noted that a lot of medicines contain acetaminophen and too much of the substance can lead to lethal overdose. This is why the medicine label should be checked to determine the quantity of the ingredient. If you have the following conditions, you must not take Vicodin: kidney or liver problems, asthma, low blood pressure, and underactive thyroid, disorders in the adrenal glands, sleep apnea, spinal curvature, intestinal problems, mental problems and alcohol or drug addiction. The drug should be only taken by the person for whom it has been prescribed, as otherwise it can lead to adverse effects.
Women who are in the Category C stage of their pregnancy should not take the drug since the FDA has found that Vicodin could affect the unborn child. It could even lead to withdrawal or addiction symptoms or breathing disorders in the baby. Hence, it is best to inform your doctor whether you are planning to conceive while on the Vicodin medication. Hydrocodone and acetaminophen might be passed into the breast milk and this could affect the newborn baby. It is best not to use the medicine while you are nursing or breast feeding your newborn. If you should use it, consult your doctor.
Vicodin should be taken just the way the doctor specifies. It should never be obtained in larger quantities or for duration except what has been specified. This is because overdose can be fatal. You may even learn about the quantity of hydrocodone or acetaminophen contained in the drug. If the medicine does not work effectively in curing pain, get in touch with your specialist immediately. If constipation is a problem, it is best to deal with it by drinking around 8 glasses of water through the day. your doctor may even recommend a diet that is rich in fiber.